The role of end-of-life lock-ins in the diffusion of eco-innovations

Eco-innovations aim to support sustainability transitions but face challenges in their diffusion due to the existing socio-technical lock-ins. End-of-life (EOL) management has a significant role in optimizing environmental benefits and thus affecting the long-term success of eco-innovations. Despite this, the EOL lock-ins and the relationship between EOL management and eco-innovation diffusion remains largely unexplored. To address this, the study employs innovation diffusion theory and socio-technical lock-in concept from sustainability transition studies to qualitatively study 14 companies in the bio-based plastic packaging industry across eight countries. Findings reveal EOL lock-ins and associated diffusion challenges across technological, institutional, behavioral, and discursive systems. Identified challenges are linked to innovation characteristics, infrastructural, societal, and institutional aspects. The study guides companies in addressing these challenges, emphasizing material research alignment with existing EOL infrastructure, collaboration and stakeholder education. Governments are urged to support infrastructural development, enhance policies, provide incentives, and invest in EOL management research.